How Safe Are Your Emails?
Despite its advantages as a communication tool, most emails people receive are useless and unnecessary. 85% of all emails are considered spam. Some spam is merely annoying, but other spam messages are dangerous. At least 3 billion phishing emails show up in inboxes every day. Phishing emails are fraudulent messages meant to steal people’s personal information. They often act as the first step of a sophisticated cyberattack. How safe are your emails? Not very.
Private individuals are common victims of cybercrime, but large companies are not exempt from the problem either. When a ransomware cyberattack locked down Colonial Pipeline’s digital equipment, the criminals crippled the supply line and triggered a massive gas panic. Integrated ransomware once halted a 5th of JBS’s meat production, disrupting the market.
Small Business is a Big Target
If even large corporations are susceptible to cybercrime, what chances do small businesses have of avoiding it? More than 60% of small businesses close their doors permanently in the months after a successful phishing attack. The most costly part of the attack is not the initial hit. Small businesses take up to 6 weeks to recover from ransomware. In the meantime, as many as 70% of consumers will stop shopping at a business that failed to protect their data. Losing business is far more costly than most ransoms.
How to Secure Your Email
What can businesses do to keep themselves safe? The first step is to establish an employee training program. 85% of scams rely on human error to be successful. While regular training is not foolproof, it could drastically lower the number of employees who click phishing links. Second, verify all invoices and payments. Over half of phishing attacks involve credential harvesting, and this can lead to invoice fraud. Third, keep a human eye out for discrepancies. Humans may not catch every problem, but 25% of phishing emails can bypass default security. Email security is worth the investment, but humans must stay vigilant. Cybersecurity plans cost less now than closing down a business does later.
Courtesy of Avanan
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Posted on August 14th, 2021
How to Identify the Unseen Threat
The internet is a wonderful place. It has brought us conveniences such as Amazon, Instacart and DoorDash. It has entertained us with countless cat videos and nourished our curious spirit with millions of google search results in less than half a second. It has also allowed us to open ourselves up to a whole new set of problems: cyber attacks. Often, this is an unseen threat.
Unlike a traditional attack, cyber attacks are often hard to trace. Hackers are very savvy and leave very little evidence of their evil doing. However, recent data shows that these attacks cost businesses upwards of 4.4 million every time. This is a huge sum of money to be spending on an unsolved crime.
However, there are several ways to prevent cyber crimes. The first is simply knowing what information is out there. You can only control what you know, so be aware of what you are posting online. Your Instagrammable lunch at that new place downtown may seem perfectly safe to share but it could also be the difference between you being a target or not.
It is important to be aware of potential threats constantly. You should by no means live your life in fear, but you should understand that your time spent on the internet could have side effects. So know the signs of potential foul play. It is almost as important to know what you are looking for then who you are looking for. Simply put, use common sense when it comes to sharing.
The internet doesn’t have to be a bad thing. In fact it shouldn’t be a bad thing at all. However, in order for us to maintain this safe space it is important to be aware of what is going on. This is the only way we are going to maintain the safety of the internet. Learn more in the infographic below about the unseen threat from Pondurance:
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Original source: https://socialmediaexplorer.com/infographic/unseen-threat/
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Posted on August 13th, 2021
Where Social Media Fits In Your Marketing Strategy
Where Social Media Fits In Your Marketing Strategy written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing
Marketing Podcast with Emeric Ernoult
In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interview Emeric Ernoult. Emeric is the Founder and CEO of AgoraPulse – an easy-to-use all-in-one social media management software.
Key Takeaway:
Social media isn’t going anywhere, and it’s ever-evolving. Founder and CEO of AgoraPulse — an easy-to-use all-in-one social media management software — talks with me about the state of social media today, where social fits in your marketing strategy, and how to make sure you’re getting the most out of it.
Questions I ask Emeric Ernoult:
More About Emeric Ernoult:
More About The Duct Tape Marketing Consultant Network:
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This episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast is brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network.
Original source: https://ducttapemarketing.com/where-social-media-fits-in-your-marketing-strategy/
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Posted on August 13th, 2021
What Is The Best Free VPN For Mac?
When you connect your device to the Internet, you connect it to a world of possibilities. At the same time, you also expose it to numerous risks. Cybercriminals need just one loophole on the internet network to intrude into your device and snoop data or mount cyberattacks.
While some Mac owners wonder if they should install the best free VPN for Mac, others do not hesitate to even go for paid versions of VPNs. The majority of them ask why they would need a VPN on a Mac device when it already has many security features.
If you have a Mac device and are wondering whether or not you should install a VPN application, this post will answer your question. Plus, it will also give you an insight into the best VPN options for Mac 2021.
Why Should You Use A VPN For Mac?
The primary reason for using a VPN on any device is data security. You would want to use a VPN on your Mac primarily for this reason. In addition, you might also want to do so for many other reasons. These may range from streaming to gaming and more.
Beyond any doubt, Macs have the best built-in security features for protection from any form of intrusion from external sources. But those features protect the privacy and security of the data in your device only as long as it remains in the memory of your device. Once it goes out on the Internet to another server, it becomes vulnerable to snooping.
Cybercriminals and hackers look for opportunities to exploit the security vulnerabilities of websites by employing smart methods. They seek ways to find out the IP address of devices and keep an eye on users’ online activities.
From internet browsing to shopping, you can perform a wide range of activities on a website. Non-HTTPS websites put your payment information at the risk of being stolen by cybercriminals. Even if HTTPS protocols claim to offer more security to your data with their encryption features, you might feel the need to add an extra layer of protection to it. After all, your data is yours, and the onus is on you to protect its privacy from the prying eyes.
Best Free VPNs For Mac in 2021
After knowing why you need a VPN on your Mac, the next thing that you might want to know is the best option among the existing choices.
Here are some best VPN options for Mac in 2021 that you can choose to address your VPN-related needs.
1. BetternetVPN
Along with an easy-to-download option, BetternetVPN also comes with an easy-to-update feature. These features add up to make it a ready-to-go VPN option on the App Store. You can set a location of your choice based on your needs while using it. Moreover, you can use this feature without any subscription.
2. Urban VPN
Urban VPN enables Mac users to connect to a secure virtual private network with decent streaming and browsing speeds. Its hallmark feature is the availability of 40 distinct server locations. Besides, you can also access it in 10 distinct languages.
Though its speed is decent enough, it is not ideal for gaming. Its encryption protocols also lack clarity. You might need to consider these aspects before deciding to use Urban VPN.
3. Windscribe
Are you looking for a VPN that you can use on Mac and other devices? If yes, Windscribe is ideal for it. You can also use its extensions on popular browsers like Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome.
Also, it has its servers in 10 different countries. Due to this feature, you can count it as a handy VPN option for unlocking geo-restrictions proficiently. However, the only catch is that its tools are far lesser than what you get with other VPNs. You will also find the same even if you subscribe to its premium plan.
4. Proton VPN
Proton VPN offers free and premium choices. Though you can go with your preferred choice, the premium option has more features. To have access to the features of both options, all you need is to create an account.
The premium options of this VPN are affordable and range between $4 and $8 per month. However, you do not get a high speed even as you choose one of the premium options between its basic plus plans. Its speed is just about perfect for addressing users’ basic needs. Plus, it only offers servers of 3 distinct locations.
5. Hide.me
Hide.me gives you unlimited bandwidth without the need to create an account. Further, its full spectrum of features is available without subscription charges. The speed it offers is ideal for downloading as well as streaming.
The only downside it has is its monthly data usage cap of 10 GB. But there is not much to complain about as most users find it good enough for their needs at basic and moderate levels.
Conclusion
From the above, it becomes clear that Macs need VPNs to extend an additional security level on the Internet. But for attaining the best results, you need to choose the best VPN for your Mac. Select one of the above options based on your requirements for an invaluable experience of using a VPN on your Mac.
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Posted on August 12th, 2021
The MarTech Podcast – The Ultimate Marketing Engine
The MarTech Podcast – The Ultimate Marketing Engine written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing
John Jantsch sits down with host Benjamin Shapiro on the MarTech Podcast to discuss his upcoming book, The Ultimate Marketing Engine.
In this episode, we’re going to dive deep into some of the core concepts of the book specifically the idea of viewing your customers, not as a transaction, but really looking at the transformation we can help them achieve in their lives or their business.
To learn more about the book, check out the episode below.
Listen: John Jantsch on the MarTech Podcast
Original source: https://ducttapemarketing.com/martech-podcast-ultimate-marketing-engine/
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Posted on August 11th, 2021
Think Outside the Box When Using Video for Your Next Social Media Campaign
As a professional in the ever evolving field of social media, it goes without saying that you have chosen to build your career in one of the most exciting and forward thinking industries that there is today. In so many ways, this is an achievement in and of itself. However as social media is used more and more as a key marketing and advertising strategy across the border around the globe, it becomes more obvious all the time that as well you have chosen a career field in something as innovative and thought provoking as social media, its exceeding competitiveness may indeed work against you. So, it is only fair to have some tricks of your sleeve in terms of not only how you approach and understand social media marketing but also how you were willing and able to openly engage with it in ways that are both meaningful and exciting to consumers and yourself as you continue to build your career.
Making your work stand out
These days, social media campaigns are all the rage. And when it comes to making your own work stand out in what seems like a limitless field of vulnerability and social media campaign space, there is a lot to be said about the fact that the rules are always changing. Even so, there are constant innovations that are designed and intended to give you the means and the opportunity to be able to make the use of your skills while also doing so in a fresh and exciting way that makes you work stand out and gives you the opportunity to boost your career progress and proficiency. It is very much an ongoing work in progress and there is a lot to be said about the fact that as time goes on, social media campaigns are not only becoming more effective but more popular. So, how can you make your next social media campaign stand out among the rest and last in your consumers’ minds?
The power of using video social media marketing
Next time, use video. Why? Because while a picture says a thousand words, a video has limitless interpretation. And when you come into video marketing with a clear vision and out of the box thinking, there is nothing that you cannot achieve. Some of the most memorable TV commercials have been made through out of the box ideas and now that social media is quickly becoming the new leading entertainment platform for consumers around the globe, there is quite a lot to be said about the fact that the power of using video social media marketing only continues to become more prominent as time goes on. And there are so many different ways that you can incorporate videos into your social media campaign that it can be dizzying to know where to even start.
Think outside the box when using video
Now that social media is the leading visual marketing tactic across the border around the globe, there is quite a lot to be said about the fact that the power of using your mind and your skills to think outside of the box can be one of your most innovative and valuable assets. Incorporating assets like a music visualizer into your social media campaign gives you the means the opportunity to be able to appeal to a wide scale of different audiences with minimal compromise involved. Having an incredible approach towards social media marketing is not only going to significantly boost your reputation as a social media marketing professional, but it is going to give you the means and the opportunity to be able to stand out in all of the best possible ways. And this can only mean good things for your career.
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Posted on August 11th, 2021
How To Thrive With Purpose-Driven Digital Marketing
How To Thrive With Purpose-Driven Digital Marketing written by Sara Nay read more at Duct Tape Marketing
Agency Spark Podcast with Stu Swineford
The Agency Spark Podcast, hosted by Sara Nay, is a collection of interviews from thought leaders in the marketing consultancy and agency space. Each episode is designed to spark ideas you can put into practice for your agency today. Check out the new Spark Lab Consulting website here!
In this episode of the Agency Spark Podcast, Sara interviews Stu Swineford. Stu is the co-founder of Relish and has performed virtually every role in the digital marketing production lifecycle – from strategy and concepting, to design and development, to QA/QC and everything in between. Along the way, he’s realized that he gets the greatest joy from helping others achieve their goals. These days, he’s in love with purposeful, conversion-focused digital marketing strategy and execution. When he’s not helping entrepreneurs and executive-level professionals, he can be found traipsing around the woods near the cabin in which he has lived with his wife and menagerie of pets since 1993.
Questions Sara asks Stu Swineford:
Learn more about Stu Swineford:
Like this show? Please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts here!
This episode of the Agency Spark Podcast is brought to you by Airborne, a sales engagement platform. Learn more about how to set your team up for success at Airborneapp.io. Sales Engagement Platforms are fundamental to the Modern Tech Stack. Airborne delivers everything you would expect from a Sales Engagement Platform and then some. Get the most out of every interaction and make your team more effective with Airborne.
Original source: https://ducttapemarketing.com/how-to-thrive-with-purpose-driven-digital-marketing/
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Posted on August 10th, 2021
Modern Sales Mastery Show – The Ultimate Marketing Engine
Modern Sales Mastery Show – The Ultimate Marketing Engine written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing
Catch my conversation with Vengreso’s Viveka von Rosen on the Modern Sales Mastery show, where we discussed “Optimizing The Customer Journey.”You can also look forward to hearing tips from my new book, “The Ultimate Marketing Engine,” which tackles the latest evolution and innovation in the world of marketing and how one can achieve ridiculous consistent growth.
Watch it here. https://youtu.be/xF8DLdP8kIE
Original source: https://ducttapemarketing.com/modern-sales-mastery-show-the-ultimate-marketing-engine/
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Posted on August 9th, 2021
Breaking Down Silos For A Better Customer Experience
Breaking Down Silos For A Better Customer Experience written by John Jantsch read more at Duct Tape Marketing
Marketing Podcast with Brandi Starr
In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interview Brandi Starr. Brandi is the Chief Operating Officer at Tegrita, a marketing consultancy specializing in marketing automation and strategy, and co-author of CMO to CRO: The Revenue Takeover by the Next Generation Executive.
Key Takeaway:
In most organizations today, departments are working in silos quite often competing with one another with their goals and how it impacts the customer. The CRO or chief revenue officer is usually the head of sales and not actually in charge of all revenue.
Brandi Starr believes that what needs to happen is that those silos need to be broken down and brought together under one umbrella with a single leader who can set organization objectives by function, but that are cohesive in that they are all working towards the same goals. In this episode, we dive into how to bring revenue to the forefront and make every team’s number one objective a seamless customer experience.
Questions I ask Brandi Starr:
More About Brandi Starr:
More About The Certified Marketing Manager Program Powered by Duct Tape Marketing:
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This episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast is brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network.
Original source: https://ducttapemarketing.com/breaking-down-silos-for-a-better-customer-experience/
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Posted on August 8th, 2021
Business Innovation: How Artificial Intelligence Is Changing Business
Business innovation and artificial intelligence have seen such a drastic change that they are inseparable today. A typical example is a chatbot that your favorite brand uses on their website to interact with you. Other examples include AI-powered applications that help marketing teams to personalize each customer experience. Today, small businesses have created a separate market for themselves using the right marketing strategy and artificial intelligence. During the last decade, the progress in AI has transformed how ideas, inventions, and innovations happen.
How machine learning can help your business innovation planning
Today, machine learning is a critical component of business innovation. Machine learning massively helps when you have repetitive processes that need automation, but it is complicated for automation using traditional programming.
Such places in your business where you need to look through large amounts of data and decide quickly about each data set is suitable for machine learning and application. It will save the business both time and money.
Businesses can also use machine learning to transcribe audio to text, recognize objects in pictures, or understand if the user comments are positive or negative.
The forthcoming data challenges for businesses
As the pandemic turns the world upside down, businesses across the globe will experience massive changes and challenges. But automation will remain the constant factor and be at the center of everything. Automation through artificial intelligence translates to growth that is solely dependent on intelligence gained from data via social media, connected devices, and other means that possess the capability to revolutionize business models.
With a massive amount of data collecting within various industries daily, some questions that we must understand are:
Today, businesses are grasping the implications of this maturing AI-driven automation ecosphere. The relationship between information, data, and intelligence is complex and sometimes indirect. Still, the stride and force that automation will imply will garner new opportunities and challenges for all businesses.
Transforming business models
With the world coming closer and closer through technology, businesses today have the opportunity to collect more data, analyze it, and innovate. It means, industries will witness a staggering evolution:
Some examples of AI changing businesses
Virtual Assistance
Chatbots in various websites are becoming common today, helping businesses enhance their customer service. Several brands are either investing in artificial intelligence for virtual assistance or are planning. While others fear the idea of customers interacting with bots will fail, some are optimistic about the potential of machine-driven assistants with human-driven customer service.
Process automation
Automation is one area that has witnessed a staggering rise in the last decade. People are innovating different automation tools for various applications and industries. While home appliances were the first automation tools, industrial robots are the latest. Today, AI-enabled robots are working side by side with humans in various industries.
Personalized customer experience
Using artificial intelligence, businesses/companies can provide a better-personalized customer experience to the customer. They can use AI to analyze data and find patterns in the information about a particular customer – buying history, credit scores, shopping preferences, etc.
Once they have actionable data, businesses can develop their marketing and sales strategy for each customer. It boasts a more personalized experience and creates data entry points at every customer engagement. The process will further help personalize the sales cycle through AI-driven applications that will allow businesses to further engage with the right customers with the right products at the right time.
Finance and banking
The finance sector is currently one of the most significant users of artificial intelligence and its application. AI is helping financial institutes boost revenue, cut costs while preventing fraud. In 2016 alone, the finance sector lost $16 billion due to identity theft and scams. It ensured a more practical application of AI to analyze client activities, buying habits, location, and flag suspicious users through fraud detection. Find out more about fraud detection and identity verification on www.idenfy.com.
Apart from it, AI is also helping in algorithmic trading to help eliminate the emotional element in logical trading. Machine learning enables algorithms to learn and encourage better trading solutions and strategies.
AI also enables banks and companies to boost their personalized banking services. Banks can provide a unique portfolio to customers depending on their risk palate. They can also offer customers personalized finance plans after observing their spending habits, goals, and income.
Concluding note
The addition of AI has enabled small businesses to flourish through accurate strategy implementation. Today, new start-ups and brands possess a chance to compete with the big fish. On the other hand, large enterprises are implementing AI in their existing work environment to streamline their work process and increase efficiency.
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Posted on August 8th, 2021